As summer is coming to an end and the barbecues, parties, picnics and vacations are slowing down the routine of fall begin to set in. Now we have to think about what we are eating and why. Poor food decisions are made when there is no plan in place and long periods go by without eating. We don’t plan to fail but fail to plan. Eating better comes with a little forethought and having the food available to eat it is much easier to make a healthy food choice and not sabotage your goals of getting healthier and getting in shape.
8 tips to help get into action:
- Make a grocery list
- Try a new recipe
- Use a combination of convenience foods and fresh to make healthier quick meals
- Learn to love beans
- Drink more water
- Walk a little more everyday
- Keep a cut up veggie tray in the fridge for snacks
- Have ingredients for 5 quick meals you always have in the house
Always remember it is not about one food that makes us unhealthy but not getting in enough of the good stuff. Think about color variety and flavor. Fruits and veggies (see Cancer Prevention section), fiber and spices all contain nutrients that keep our immune system strong to fight off disease and keep us in better balance. Once it is part of a routine it is easier to get back on your routine of eating healthier.
My Favorite side dish:
Fresh Tomatoes
Cucumbers
Fresh Basil
Balsamic Vinegar
Pinch of Salt and pepper
Cut up tomatoes and cucumbers into bite size pieces. Finely chop fresh basil mix together with vinegar, salt and pepper and you have a great healthy side dish.